Joel, thank you for your piece on guilt and trauma and healing. It says much with which I empathise, not only intellectually but far more because it reflects my own experiences.

Unfortunately, I am still battling to heal but on most days now I fell that I am gaining ground. I feel more positive and more entitled to be alive, to heal, and not persist with that guilt that so many others have gone through and are going through trauma that I probably can't even imagine.

Your piece contributes to a re-affirmation of that in myself, something with which I still struggle, despite a more enlightened & more positive view of myself.

Others have said it to me in a less explanatory or understanding way but perhaps more succinct one: "Don't be so hard on yourself", they've said.

Take care. Be safe. Thank you for what you give.